Introduction

Who needs a visa to come to New Zealand?

Before making any plans to live or work in New Zealand, you must ensure that you have a valid passport and the appropriate permit or visa.

Nationals of Australia can live and work in New Zealand with no more official documentation than their passport. All other nationalities (with some exceptions) must apply for permission to stay in New Zealand, either temporarily or permanently, before their arrival. New Zealand makes a distinction between those staying temporarily, who must apply for a visa or permit, and those wishing to stay permanently, who must apply for residence.

Immigration is a complex subject and the rules are constantly changing. You shouldn’t base any decisions or actions on the information contained in this section without confirming it with an official and reliable source, such as the New Zealand Immigration Service or The Emigration Group.

Residence regulations are taken seriously by the New Zealand authorities and if your application isn’t in order it can result in rejection. The authority responsible for controlling entry to New Zealand is the New Zealand Immigration Service (NZIS, also called Immigration New Zealand –www.immigration.govt.nz) or Te Ratonga Manene in Maori, a service of the Department of Labour. A list of NZIS offices, branches and agencies in New Zealand and worldwide can be found on the website. New Zealand embassies, consulates and high commissions also provide information on immigration.